If you were to see the photo of this woman, you might not have any clue that it is actually Lilly Wachowski. Okay, you might not recognize that name but to be more specific, Lilly Wachowski used to be Andy Wachowski, co-creator of The Matrix and other blockbuster movies in a surprise statement made late yesterday. Here’s what she said:

“My sister Lana and I have largely avoided the press. I find talking about my art frustratingly tedious and talking about myself a wholly mortifying experience. I knew at some point I would have to come out publicly. You know, when you’re living as an out transgender person it’s … kind of difficult to hide. I just wanted–needed some time to get my head right, to feel comfortable.”

Lilly’s sister Lana Wachowski who was once Larry Wachowski transitioned shortly after the duo directed the Speed Racer adaption in 2008. And considering yesterday was International Women’s Day, well, what better time for Lilly to make the big announcement.

“So yeah, I’m transgender. And yeah, I’ve transitioned. I’m out to my friends and family. Most people at work know too. Everyone is cool with it. Yes, thanks to my fabulous sister they’ve done it before, but also because they’re fantastic people. Without the love and support of my wife and friends and family I would not be where I am today.”

Regardless of who the Wachowski’s are, it’s pretty brave to pursue one’s happiness, especially if that happiness might be “shocking” to others. Shocking or not, if that happiness isn’t hurting anyone, one shouldn’t help but applaud them for doing what they feel is right for themselves.

The Wachowski’s in 1999.

As a film geek, it’ll be tough for me to not refer to the directing duo as “The Wachowski Brothers”, a credit they’ve used for around seven films and have been famously referred to as for the past ten years before Lana’s transition, but I think we’ll all manage with just saying The Wachowski’s.

I just hope this change doesn’t halt any cool projects that they might be conjuring up, and really it shouldn’t. This also reminds me to watch The Matrix again. It’s been far too long.